A MAJOR KEY TO BEING ENTREPRENEURIAL - HOW WE LEARN

Traditional Learning (SINGLE LOOP)

Scanning, Sensing, Planning (THINK) >>> then >>>
Comparison to norms (DECIDE) >>> then >>>
Initiate action (ACT) >>> then >>>
Adjust (GET FEEDBACK) >>> then >>>
The process restarts with Scanning, Sensing, Planning (THINK) and so on.

Due to the ‘need for experimentation and speed’, entrepreneurial activity means less planning and more doing. I suggest the traditional learning model is no longer appropriate or effective.

Entrepreneurial Learning (EXPERIENTIAL-DOUBLE LOOP-ADJUSTED)

Scanning, Sensing, Acting (ACT) >>> then >>>
Reflect on what happened (FEEDBACK) >>> then >>>
Compare to norms (THINK QUICKLY), plus
2nd loop Question the norms (THINK QUICKLY) >>> then >>>
Adjust (DECIDE) and the process continues with,
Scanning, Sensing, Acting (ACT) and so on.

ARE YOUR KEY PLAYERS LEARNING FROM MARKET REALITIES OR ARE THEY STILL DOING FIVE YEAR PLANS BASED ON AN IRRELEVANT PAST…

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THREE MORE HABITS FOR EFFECTIVE MANAGERS

HABIT 4: Before answering staff questions, ask them to suggest a solution to the problem... if staff are encouraged to offer their suggestions true mentoring/coaching can begin, plus it’s a good way to find new approaches to solving old problems.

HABIT 5: Allow staff to make and learn from mistakes, (within reason)... by allowing mistakes and then coaching to improve performance, ‘subordinates’ will be more willing to take responsibility. A common tendency to ridicule or ‘hit’ those who make mistakes is a major reason for the failure of many empowerment programs.

HABIT 6: Manage the in-tray using the “three pile” method, 1 ‘must do now’, 2 ‘not urgent but important’ and 3 ‘l will get to it next week’. Then assume there is no: 2 and place contents into 1 or 3... then bin the 3 pile, (or have it filed… if you must). Immediately take at least one positive step on each task in the 1 pile… respond, instruct, seek clarification, or delegate.

HABITS ARE LIKE RABBITS… PUT A COUPLE TOGETHER & THE EFFECTS MULTIPLY

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